Mugger hits wrong 'Joe;' target turns out to be Worcester DA

A robber arraigned in Worcester District Court this afternoon apparently picked the wrong victim: the county's top prosecutor, Worcester District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.

Jason P. Beaudreau, 27, of Worcester, was arraigned on assault and battery and unarmed robbery today after allegedly attempting to take Mr. Early's wallet at Ciao Bella restaurant on Grove Street yesterday.

According to court records, Mr. Early was taking out his wallet inside the restaurant when Mr. Beaudreau pulled it out of his hand. Mr. Early then struggled with Mr. Beaudreau, holding him up against the wall.

As the two men struggled, a Worcester court officer entered the restaurant, and recognized Mr. Early. The two men then pulled Mr. Beaudreau into the parking lot, where the court officer subdued him until police arrived around 6:54 p.m. Mr. Early stood a few feet away, and identified the suspect for police, the court records said.

The court record indicated that Mr. Early got his wallet back.

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